UFC 318: Holloway vs. Poirier 3 - Prelim Pick: Vinicius "LokDog" Oliveira vs. Kyler "The Matrix" Phillips

A thrilling bantamweight contest is set for the prelims of UFC 318: Holloway vs. Poirier 3, featuring Kyler "The Matrix" Phillips against Vinicius "LokDog" Oliveira on July 19, 2025, at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, LA.

Fighter Backgrounds

Kyler Phillips

Kyler "The Matrix" Phillips (12-3-0) is a 30-year-old American bantamweight representing MMA LAB. Phillips is known for his dynamic, unpredictable, and athletic fighting style, blending explosive striking with solid grappling. He holds a Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu black belt and has an impressive five TKO/KO and two submission victories. He recently suffered a unanimous decision loss to Rob Font in October 2024, but had previously secured unanimous decision wins over Pedro Munhoz (March 2024) and Raoni Barcelos (August 2023).

Vinicius Oliveira

Vinicius "LokDog" Oliveira (22-3-0) is a 29-year-old Brazilian bantamweight from Sombra Team MMA. Oliveira is a highly aggressive and powerful striker with an astonishing 16 TKO/KO victories. He is currently on a three-fight winning streak in the UFC, with decision wins over Said Nurmagomedov (February 2025) and Ricky Simon (June 2024), and a highlight-reel flying knee KO over Bernardo Sopaj (March 2024). He is a former two-time UAE Warriors champion.

Fighting Styles and Strengths

Kyler Phillips

• Dynamic and Unpredictable Striking: Utilizes a wide array of strikes, including spinning attacks and kicks, making him hard to read.
• Strong Wrestling and Grappling: Capable of securing takedowns and has a dangerous submission game, highlighted by a triangle armbar win over Marcelo Rojo.
• High Output and Pace: Tends to push a high pace and throw a lot of volume.
• Athleticism: Highly athletic and agile, allowing for flashy techniques and quick movements.

Vinicius Oliveira

• Explosive Knockout Power: His 16 KO/TKO wins speak for themselves; he has the ability to end fights in an instant, often with flying knees or powerful punches.
• Aggressive and Forward-Moving: Oliveira consistently pushes the action, looking for the finish.
• Switch Stance: Fights from both orthodox and southpaw, adding to his unpredictability.
• Durability: Has shown the ability to absorb shots and continue pushing forward.

Recent Performances

Kyler Phillips

Phillips recently lost a unanimous decision to veteran Rob Font, which halted his momentum. However, his prior wins against Pedro Munhoz and Raoni Barcelos were dominant performances that showcased his well-rounded skillset and ability to win tough decisions.

Vinicius Oliveira

Oliveira is on a hot streak, having impressed with his powerful finishes and recent decision victories over high-caliber opponents like Ricky Simon and Said Nurmagomedov. His flying knee knockout of Bernardo Sopaj in March 2024 was a definite "Knockout of the Year" contender, cementing his reputation as a dangerous finisher.

Odds and Betting Information

Fighter	Odds
Kyler Phillips	+130
Vinicius Oliveira	-155

Vinicius Oliveira is the favorite at -155, while Kyler Phillips is the underdog at +130.

Keys to Victory

Kyler Phillips

• Utilize Footwork and Angles: Use his dynamic movement to avoid Oliveira's power shots and create openings for his own attacks.
• Mix in Wrestling: Phillips should look to mix in takedowns to drain Oliveira's gas tank and control the fight on the ground.
• Volume Striking: Land multiple strikes and combinations to overwhelm Oliveira, rather than searching for one big shot.
• Defensive Awareness: Be extremely wary of Oliveira's explosive power, especially early in the fight.

Vinicius Oliveira

• Land the Big Shot: Oliveira's path to victory is clear: find the knockout blow. His power is a game-changer.
• Maintain Aggression: Keep Kyler Phillips on his back foot, preventing him from settling into his rhythm.
• Control the Center: Dominate the center of the octagon to cut off Phillips' lateral movement.
• Body Work: Target Phillips' body to drain his cardio and slow him down.

Prediction

Betting on MMA carries inherent risks. This analysis is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee outcomes. Please bet responsibly. Odds are subject to change.